Teach English Abroad in Uganda

A Guide to
Teaching Abroad in Uganda

With its magnificent lakes, Uganda has been blessed with this beautiful feature and then some. It’s a nation of true spirit and culture, left somewhat untouched amidst a world of globalization and technological innovation. Living in a country dealing with determinant socioeconomic issues, teachers may find themselves learning and teaching more than they would expect during their time outside the classroom. Whether spending time with a Ugandan family in their home or observing a festive dance performance displaying the nation’s native dress, you’ll enjoy the benefits when you teach in Uganda.

Where to Teach Abroad in Uganda

Uganda is a landlocked country in Eastern Africa. The country is known for its large lakes, including Lake Albert, Lake Edward, and Lake Kyoga, in addition to the infamous Lake Victoria. Uganda is situated at the East African plateau, and while largely equatorial, it still experiences sporadic rainfall throughout the year. Here are the best places to teach abroad in Uganda.

Mukono District. You’ll find this site in south central Uganda, where Mukano is the main commercial center and the district’s headquarters, and the population is around 600,000. With an ideal climate and abundant rainfall, you’ll come to adore this area. Natural lovers and adventure enthusiasts will rejoice with Lake Victoria’s plethora of watersports as well as Sezibwa Falls, which has a natural forest reserve with trails and walkways, ample birdwatching and forest exploration, and a cultural site of artifacts, century-old trees, and caves.

Kampala. If you get the chance, visit the dynamic capital of Uganda with its tropical rainforest climate — it’s located off the coast of Lake Victoria in the southern area. The energetic city is filled with street shopping, hotels, temples, and mosques. From the Gaddafi National Mosque to the Uganda Museum to the Nakasero Market, Kampala has enough attractions and things to do to keep you busy for a weekend or two.

Jinja. This city, the historical source of the Nile River, and the adrenaline capital of East Africa, lies east of Kampala on the shores of Lake Victoria. From whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, mountain biking, and more, this city will tempt your daredevil within to go nuts with fun. Jinja also has several educational establishments, so you might be able to find a teaching position here that fits your needs.

Popular Teaching Jobs in Uganda

If you intend to establish a teaching career in Uganda, it is best to have a bachelor's degree in education at the very least. With a bachelor’s degree in hand, foreign teachers can qualify for job posts in schools with more sufficient pay scales. A TEFL certificate won’t hurt either, as it shows a competence to teach the English language, even if you are not a licensed teacher or an education major. Here’s the most popular type of teaching job in Uganda.

Teaching English & various subjects. As a volunteer teacher in Uganda and with the guidance of a local teacher, you’ll have the opportunity to teach young children and adolescents English, math, science, and social studies; work in a local community; arrange activities, and assist with improving village infrastructure. Not to mention you’ll make friends for life among the staff and students and unforgettable memories along the way.

Paid teaching positions. You could also find paid positions through programs where you’ll be teaching in private schools or tutoring students privately. These types of positions will offer higher teaching salaries (and sometimes housing) because the families of the students are usually wealthier. However, theses positions might be hard to find online. You’ll have an easier time finding paid positions when you’re in Uganda.

Teaching Salaries in Uganda

How much money can I make teaching in Uganda? Uganda’s economy is rapidly improving, but you can expect a low salary for English teachers here, and volunteer teachers don’t earn much or earn a small stipend. You might make a few hundred dollars a month, but the cost of living is fairly low, so you might be able to break even. Homes often cost between $300 and $800 depending on the style of the home and the location, but most programs offer accommodation as a benefit.

Accommodations in Uganda

The types of housing can vary with the program, but with some programs, you can expect to stay in a volunteer house throughout the project. Programs offer accommodation in exchange for your service in most cases as well, and they ensure clean, comfortable housing. By staying with other volunteers around the world, you could gain unique international perspectives, have fun outside the classroom, and make lifelong friends.

Visas for Teachers in Uganda

The visa requirements for Uganda have changed recently and can get a little complicated. You’ll need your passport, a yellow fever vaccination, and a tourist visa to enter the country. You’ll have to apply for the visa and work permit online at least two weeks prior to arriving in Uganda. The program and GoAbroad’s Embassy Directory can help you with the requirements to get the process started and to follow all the necessary procedures.

GoAbroad Insider Tips

Teachers may have the opportunity to visit safari parks and do outdoor recreational activities, such as mountain climbing and trekking in their free time — things not easily found in urban teaching locations in developed nations.

While you’ll face challenges and obstacles along the way, you’ll gain valuable professional skills from management to cultural communication skills from your experience teaching in Uganda.

You’ll no doubt be going down the road less traveled, yet most rewarding, by teaching in Uganda.

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A Guide To
Teaching Abroad in Uganda

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Experience teaching abroad in Uganda. Whether you are a student or a teacher interested in developing your teaching skills, you will find the opportunity you need to broaden your horizons through the programs offered by Frontier. You can also earn a TEFL Qualification by working on the project long enough to complete 20 hours of teaching. The ability to work and live in a country with a unique ...